minimize

[min-uh-mahyz] / ˈmɪn əˌmaɪz /

VERB

make smaller; underrate

Synonyms

STRONGEST

curtail decrease diminish downplay lessen play down reduce trivialize underestimate

STRONG

abbreviate attenuate belittle cheapen decry deprecate depreciate derogate detract discount disparage dwarf knock miniaturize pan pooh-pooh prune shrink underplay

WEAK

cut down to size knock down make light of make little of poor-mouth put down run down

Antonyms

STRONGEST

develop enlarge expand extend grow increase lengthen prolong raise strengthen

STRONG

approve build up commend compliment exalt laud praise

WEAK

maximize overestimate overrate

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Both CalPERS and CalSTRS said that investment portfolios seek to minimize risk and maximize returns.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 2, 2026

Some take on risky self-directed investments, while others are forced to minimize their retirement savings until they pay off other obligations.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 26, 2026

An older relative gives annual gifts to minimize future estate taxes.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 26, 2026

While administration officials attempt to project control and minimize long-term impact, the immediate consequences are already being felt in global energy markets — and, increasingly, by consumers facing rising fuel costs.

From Salon • Mar. 22, 2026

Well, in a way—and I have no wish to minimize his peculiar role and his peculiar achievement—it is not he who has done it but time.

From "The Fire Next Time" by James Baldwin

minimize

Example Sentences

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